Creamy Shells With Ham And Broccoli
Creamy shells filled with tender ham and crisp-tender broccoli offer a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the medium shell pasta until al dente, then drain.
- Saute the crushed garlic in margarine until fragrant.
- Add sliced ham and thawed broccoli to the garlic and cook until broccoli is crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the whipping cream or half and half and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and cook over low heat until cheese is melted.
- Toss the cooked shells with the creamy ham and broccoli mixture until well coated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing. You can substitute the ham with leftover roast chicken or turkey for a different twist. If you prefer a lighter dish, use Greek yogurt instead of cream. Fresh broccoli can also be used if you blanch it briefly before adding.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy shells with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Old Fashion Lettuce Salad for freshness. For a complete meal, consider serving with garlic bread or a light tomato salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring often to prevent uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Shells With Ham And Broccoli contains roughly 683 calories, with 10g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 759mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type to ensure it's cooked al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the other ingredients, such as the margarine and Parmesan cheese, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this creamy dish without dietary concerns.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it's possible to freeze the dish, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the cream and adding it fresh when reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).